Easton library exhibit displays collection of handmade aprons

For many aprons may seem an old-fashioned garment, but not to Louella Mann of Bridgewater.

“I don’t think aprons are a thing of the past,” said Mann whose collection of handmade aprons is on view at the Ames Free Library in Easton this month. “I think everyone needs them.”

Roughly 10 of her aprons, along with various kinds of apron materia,l can also be seen.

Mann is a retired teacher, who taught for 39 years in Easton and Marshfield. She is originally from Bridgewater and lives in the house where she grew up.

Mann’s exhibit is an overview of different types of aprons that anyone might wear. She has never showcased her work before in an exhibit but she sells her aprons at craft fairs and also gives them away as gifts.

At the Ames Free Library’s Foodie Group meeting this past month, Mann was asked by Bobbie Anderson to briefly speak about aprons. Mann also instructed the group how to make a waist apron out of one yard of material.

“I think probably my favorite apron is a commercial apron from Montana,” Mann said. “I had a pen pal for 30 years who knew I loved aprons and she sent me one with bears on it because she also knew that I love bears. I believe it says ‘Feed the bears’ on it.”

In addition to making aprons and sewing, Mann has many other hobbies. She enjoys gardening at her second home in New Hampshire. She enjoys shopping for different apron materials and she enjoys music.

“I enjoy shopping in New Hampshire and Maine for apron materials, but I also traveled to Lancaster, Pa., to Amish country where I found some very neat materials to make aprons out of,” Mann said.

Louella Mann’s apron collection is on display at the Ames Free Library through the end of the month. If you are interested in displaying your collection in the library’s exhibit case, contact info@amesfreelibrary.org to learn more.